Big headlines say the OCR fell, but your bank rate barely budged. We open the bonnet to show why: lenders price off wholesale markets and move ahead of Reserve Bank calls, which is why retail rates don’t always mirror the cash rate. From there we get practical—how do you choose between a sharp short-term fix and the peace of a five-year rate around 4.99 percent? If you plan to stay put, value certainty, and want to protect your budget in case the next move is up later next year, a longer fix can make life easier. If you need flexibility or think you’ll sell, short terms can still be compelling, especially for first-home buyers who qualify for rare 3.99 to 4 percent offers.We also tackle a costly myth: waiting for COVID-era 2.99 percent to return. Anchoring to an anomaly keeps you renting while prices in Auckland and Wellington remain subdued. When you add rates and insurance to a mortgage, the total often rivals rent—and only one of those payments builds equity. We compare the real numbers, talk through break-fee risks, and explain why banks’ wholesale costs matter more than the OCR on announcement day. The message isn’t to time the market; it’s to build a plan that survives the market.Beyond rates, we zoom out to life strategy. A home can function as a compulsory savings plan that unlocks options later—drawing on equity in a tight patch, downsizing to fund retirement, or supporting multi-generational living as families change. We share personal lessons on paying down early before kids, using equity when income dips, and choosing properties that keep future flexibility in play. If your loan is rolling soon, think about what you want most: certainty, optionality, or a blend across different terms.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a mate who’s on the fence about buying, and leave a quick review to help more Kiwis make smarter money moves.Send us a text Support the showBuy your first home in NZ Weekly Webinars You thought it's not possible or the dream is too far away? Come to my webinar and I will show you, you are much closer to your dream, than you think you are! Join Here - https://bit.ly/4m9SL72

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